ABOUT THE FESTIVAL

The 6th Annual Atlantic City Comedy Festival has been announced to take place at Atlantic City’s Boardwalk Hall on Columbus Day Weekend. Scheduled comedians for the festival include Mike Epps, Sommore, Earthquake, Bruce Bruce, Don DC Curry, J. Anthony Brown, Tommy Davidson, John Witherspoon, Cocoa Brown and Finesse Mitchell.

Saturday Oct, 10 @ 8:00pm

Sunday Oct, 11 @ 8:00pm

Comedians

Mike Epps

Mike Epps is exploding on the comedy, TV and film scenes with his multiple roles. He is currently co-starring in HBO’s Bessie and will star in the TV remake Uncle Buck on ABC this

Mike Epps

Mike Epps

Mike Epps is exploding on the comedy, TV and film scenes with his multiple roles. He is currently co-starring in HBO’s Bessie and will star in the TV remake Uncle Buck on ABC this fall. He has also been tapped to play comedy legend Richard Pryor in the icon’s biopic.

Mike Epps has generated an extraordinary amount of buzz among his peers within the entertainment industry for being one of the funniest comic actors toe emerge in the Hollywood scene as of late. 2008 proved to be an impressive year for Epps. In February, Epps appeared in the Universal Studios ensemble comedy “Welcome Home Roscoe Jenkins,” opposite Martin Lawrence, James Earl Jones and Joy Bryant. In April 2008, he appeared in the indie film “The Grand,” directed by Zak Penn and starring Woody Harrelson and Cheryl Hines. He can also be seen in the following 2008 releases: MGM’s “Soul Men” starring Samuel L. Jackson, Bernie Mac and Issac Hayes; Sony Pictures’ “Hancock” starring Will Smith and Charlize Theron and “Open Season 2” in which he lends his voice. Upcoming, Epps re-teams with Ice Cube to star in “Janky Promoters,” a comedy about two shady concert promoters (Cube and Epps) who get into hot water when their chance to book a superstar rapper goes awry. “Janky” is due in theateres March 2009. Epps will also star oppositve Mos Def in the dark comedy, “Next Day Air,” which is set to release in May 2009. In 2007, Epps reprised his role as ‘LJ’ in Sony’s futuristic action franchise, “Resident Evil: Extinction,” which placed number one at thte box office for two consecutive weeks in September ‘07. Epps also had as small but dramatic role alongside Don Cheadle in “Talk to Me” for Focus Features in August 2007.

When Epps isn’t filming, he is touring the country and performing his comedy act, The Mike Epps on the Edge Tour to sold-out theaters and arenas across the country. Last year Mike’s one hour comedy special, “Inappropriate Behavior” aired on HBO and was one of the network’s top-rated one-hour specials of the year, followed by its subsequent DVD release that same month. Later that fall, Mike transitioned from his HBO comedy special to hosting duties as the new host of HBO’s Def Comedy Jam, which aired on September 10, 2006. Since 2000, Epss’ comedic film roles have exploded. In March 2002 Epps was seen starting opposite Ice Cube in New Line Cinema’s “All About the Benjamins.” Epps also reprised his role as Day-Day in “Friday After Next,” the third installment of the “Friday” series. In 2003, Epps appeared in the Paramount comedy, “The Fighting Temptations” alongside Cuba Gooding Jr. and Beyonce Knowles, and in 2004 he played the comedic relief as a loud mouthed garbage manin Fox Searchlight’s “Roll Bounce,” a film set in the late 1970s about the rollerskating lifestyle which also starred Bow Wow, Chi McBride, and Nick Cannon. Mike then went on to play a pivotal role in the Focus Features romantic comedy, “Something New,” starring Sanaa Lathan as a black career woman who unexpectedly finds love with a white working-class man, played by Simon Baker. Earlier that same year, Epps starred in two classic remakes — first Epps was seen in Columbia Pictures’ well received, “Guess Who”, starring Ashton Kutcher and Bernie Mac which was released in March of ‘05. He then starred in Paramount Picture’s remake of “The Honeymooners,” in which he played comedic legend Ed Norton, alongside Cedric the Entertainer as Ralph Kramden. A native of Indiana who has steadily climbed his way up the stand-up comedy ranks for the last seven years, Epps’ comedic talent was recognized by a national audience in 1995 when he appeared on the Def Comedy Jam tour and appeared on HGO’s Def Comedy Jam broadcasts. Epps moved to Los Angeles after his successful performance at the 1999 Laffapalooza festival in Atlanta. During his performance at LA’s Comedy Store, Epps caught the attention of Ice Cube. This led to him being cast int he co-starring role of Day-Day in his feature film debut, 2000’s hit comedy “Next Friday.” Epps has also appeared in “Bait” with Jamie Foxx, “How High” with Method Man and Redman and was the voice of Sonny in “Dr. Dolittle 2.”

Epps currently resides in Los Angeles.

Sommore

Sommore reigns as the undisputed “Queen of Comedy.” This trendsetting, highly-acclaimed veteran entertainer is widely considered one of America’s top comedic female entertainers. With a winning

Sommore

Sommore

Sommore reigns as the undisputed “Queen of Comedy.” This trendsetting, highly-acclaimed veteran entertainer is widely considered one of America’s top comedic female entertainers. With a winning combination of class and sass, Sommore offers audiences a hilarious, yet piercing look at today's issues from a woman’s perspective. She is frank and fearless in her routines, tackling topics that range from the mundane to the controversial with wit, intelligence and style. Praised by critics, respected by her peers, and adored by a diverse fan base, she performs her stand-up act to sold-out audiences across the country, and she is among the top-grossing stand-up comediennes in the United States and abroad. Oprah Winfrey proclaimed her “a force to be reckoned with in the new millennium.”

Born in Trenton, New Jersey, Sommore has had a meteoric rise to the top of her field and has been a trailblazer for women in the comedy business. She was the first woman to host BET’s ”Comic View,” presiding over the 1994-1995 season, and in 1995, she received the Richard Pryor Award for Comic of the Year. She also has hosted Russell Simmons’ “Def Comedy Jam,” and “Showtime at the Apollo.” She was part of the record-breaking “Queens of Comedy” tour in 2000, which garnered Sommore a wider fan base and got her registered in Guinness' Book of World Records when she performed to a captivated audience of more than 50,000 people in Atlanta, Georgia. The 2001 made-for-television movie based on that tour was the highest-rated and longest running special in the history of the Showtime Network. Never one to rest on her laurels, Sommore was a featured comic in the “Latham Entertainment Presents” tour in 2002, where she was the only woman performer.

In 2002, Sommore made her film debut in Friday After Next. She has also been featured in a number of other films including, Family Reunion (2002), Soul Plane (2004), Something New (2006), and Dirty Laundry (2007).

Sommore has been a featured guest on “The Oprah Winfrey Show,” “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno,” “The View,” and “Politically Incorrect with Bill Maher.” She was interviewed on CNN Headline News about her phenomenal artistic and financial success as a comedienne, and was profiled in Comedy Central’s “Special Women in Comedy” program. Other noteworthy accomplishments for Sommore include several appearances on the sitcoms "The Hughleys" and "The Parkers," HBO's "SNAPS" and MTV's "Wild 'N Out." Sommore also participated in season six of VH1’s “Celebrity Fit Club", Comedy Central's "Roast of Flavor Flav," and was a regular on NBC's game show “1 vs. 100” during the 2008 season.
More than a comedienne, Sommore is a writer, producer, and entrepreneur. She wrote and produced “The Queen Stands Alone,” a filmed version of her stand-up act, which debut on Comedy Central in September 2008 to over 800,000 viewers. The DVD is currently in stores and is one of the best sellers among stand-up films.

In 2010, Sommore was invited to participate in Chicago’s “Just for Laughs Comedy Festival” as a featured act on the “Cedric the Entertainer’s Urban Circus” which aired on TBS. There she performed alongside the likes of other comedic greats such as Jerry Seinfeld, Chris Rock, Steve Harvey and Cedric the Entertainer. Sommore was also featured on the very successful “Royal Comedy Tour” where she was the first female comedienne to Headline over other male Nationally Headlining acts. The tour is currently gearing up to go back out in 2011 and Sommore is looking forward to once again headlining the show and proving to others that she belongs. In addition, she is the producer of a documentary, which is currently in production and she is developing several projects for television. Sommore earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration and mathematics from Morris Brown College in Atlanta. Before she became a comedy star, she taught algebra in the Atlanta public school system, and owned and operated several businesses in Atlanta, including a clothing store, a shoe store, and a store that featured imported food and specialty products from Africa.

Sommore has found success in nearly every area of the entertainment industry. She continues to be in high demand for film roles and television appearances. She plans to expand her role as a writer and producer of comedy, documentary films, and television programs. In addition, she has been involved with several hip-hop projects, including videos and recordings. However, her greatest love continues to be her first love—stand-up comedy. She is currently gearing up to once again Headline the very successful “Royal Comedy Tour” which debuted in early 2010 to rave reviews. It was also the first time that a female comedian has been featured as the headlining act over other nationally known male headliners. A feat that she Sommore continues to hone her skills and expand her reputation as a comedienne, performing to sold-out audiences across the country in both large arenas including the world famous Radio City Music Hall and Madison Square Garden in New York City and Universal Amphitheatre in Los Angeles, as well as at premiere comedy clubs such as Caroline’s on Broadway in New York and the world famous Improv's. With her fresh approach to comedy, her distinctive style, and her groundbreaking accomplishments in the entertainment industry, she is a true “Queen of Comedy,” – a title she plans to hold for years to come. Sommore is highly regarded in stand-up comedy and was recently the host of BET’s ComicView relaunch.

Earthquake

The life and times of Comedian Earthquake reads like an unlikely happenstance that has fallen into divine rightness. Everyone knows the story, he didn’t have an epiphany about his career, but what e

Earthquake

Earthquake

The life and times of Comedian Earthquake reads like an unlikely happenstance that has fallen into divine rightness. Everyone knows the story, he didn’t have an epiphany about his career, but what everyone is missing, is that somehow someway he is standing right where he needs to be.

D.C.’s own Nathaniel Stroman turned Earthquake has a knack for gut instinct. It’s how he came to have thousands of adoring fans and has graced every media opportunity afforded a stand- up comedian in this day and age. ‘The way I approach y show is unique’, Earthquake says.’ I don’t have a plan, I just step on stage and it goes from there’. And there it goes, is right. From the late 1990’s to the turn of the millennium he had the nation laughing to tears in repeat mode saying, ‘I wanna put my air in my mama’s name’. He then changed with the times and said ‘You still like cheese in your eggs O.J.??’ Nevertheless, he got the clue that the world was listening and while that never determined his direction, it was rewarding to know he had an impact. That impact lead him to iconic performances on BET’s Comic View making his performance cultural staple of urban media lifestyle. He then blessed the stages at HBO’s Def Comedy Jam, shot a couple of 30-minute specials on Comedy Central and BET respectively and gave a critical acclaimed performance on his solo effort One Night Stand for HBO. He shook up audiences at the Walter Latham Presents taping making it what some say was his best performance to date and consistently obliged the audiences in Jamie Foxx’s Laffapalooza and 2009’s Shaq’s Comedy All-stars. He blessed the TBS Comedy Fest in Rat Pack attire and was subsequently labeled by critics as the possible (yet respectful and honorable) predecessor to the late great Bernie Mac. A unique voice, uncommon appeal and with a sense and sensibility that will make the brilliant feel dumb, Quake (as he is known by fans) rose above the laws of the land and continued to shake up audiences all over the world.

His break out performance film ‘About Got Damm Time’, became an instant popular collectible and his ‘From the Outhouse to the Penthouse’ shocked the masses as he proudly captivated audiences live the weekend of the first inauguration of President Barack Obama. His subsequent film appearances in Getting Played with Vivica Fox, Barnyard and animated classic, Clerks II with Wanda Sykes and Ice Cube’s The Longshot’s gave Quake fans a taste of a promising future. The remainder of his resume reads like a who’s who of stand-up comedy while he traveled the mainstream circuit blessing the forums of HBO’s Bill Maher (which made him the first comedian to receive a standing ovation on that show) Howard Stern (with Stern calling him his new favorite comedian), and Chelsea Lately to name a few. His most interesting looks were caught on trendy talk shows like Weekend At D.L.’s and Baisden After Dark, but when the nation caught him gliding on the stage at George Lopez, it was as if time had stood still.

Refreshingly charming with a pristine presentation Quake looks amazing as if he hadn’t been in the game for 20 years. His fans were excited to receive him as the unforgettable Uncle Mike in Chris Rock’s beloved Everybody Hates Chris a recurring role he had the world on board with his infectious…’Big man!’. If Quake has learned nothing else about himself he has learned that what he says impacts language.

A popular property in stand-up, his schedule is full and he revels in his accomplishments while traveling the world. ‘These ain’t jokes!’ he bellows from stage to stage as he reveals truths about himself and others that in any other circumstance may not be a laughing matter. ‘The essence of comedy is in exposing uncomfortable truths,’ he says in an interview. ‘Finding a way for the public to accept these truths is the art of the craft.’

Basking in the love he received from comedic icon Whoopi Goldberg as one of her favorite comedians, in April of 2013, he appeared on ABC’s The View in a special segment of stand-up comedians showcased by the cast of The View as their personal favorites. Whoopi Goldberg chose Earthquake and in front of all of America she relished in his ‘fearlessness’. Needless to say, he shined to rave reviews. He then made an appearance on the popular late night program TBS’s Conan O’Brien and on BET’s hit sitcom ‘The Game’.

Presently, Earthquake is the host of New York City’s #1 afternoon drive-time radio show, ‘Quake’s House’ on WBLS-FM, is currently on a national comedy tour, as well as just completed taping for his one-hour comedy special “These Ain’t Jokes“, scheduled to air November 2014.

It doesn’t look like his ‘natural’ is a disaster after all.

For more information about Earthquake, his show on WLBS-FM and his upcoming projects including his national comedy tour and DVD, visit: www.quakeshouse.com, and follow him on Twitter: @RealEarthquake

Bruce Bruce

Bruce Bruce is a name synonymous with keeping audiences rolling with laughter thanks to his captivating improv skills and larger than life comedic style. Bruce’s steady style of comedy has been show

Bruce Bruce

Bruce Bruce

Bruce Bruce is a name synonymous with keeping audiences rolling with laughter thanks to his captivating improv skills and larger than life comedic style. Bruce’s steady style of comedy has been showcased across the country, and he has been entertaining audiences young and old, and of all backgrounds, for years. His wit, spontaneity and dazzling personality set him apart from other standup comedians. Although Bruce is known for his adult comedy, he prides himself on not using vulgarity to win a laugh, and is no stranger is winning over new audiences with every appearance he makes. From his role as host for two seasons of BET’s “Comic View” to his many appearances on tv and film, Bruce is clearly a comedian that has found his mark in the business. Bruce headlined the 2008 Just for Laughs Comedy Festival in Montreal, leaving the audiences north of the border in stitches. On the feature film front, Bruce made a cameo in the HBO Films feature “Idlewild,” appeared in the Larry the Cable Guy-starrer “Larry the Cable Guy: Health Inspector,” with Ice Cube in Columbia Pictures’ “XXX: State of the Union” and in the Screen Gems comedy “Think Like a Man.” He most recently appeared in the Paramount’s, Chris Rock directed “Top Five.” This summer, you can catch Bruce starring with Marc Maron in the IFC “Maron” series.

Bruce is one of the nation’s favorite standup comedians and can currently be seen on the national The Real Mike Epps Tour and in selected clubs. In addition to standup comedy, film and tv, Bruce Bruce can also add author to his list of credits. Bruce recently released his first book “Baby James Brown” from Penguin Publishing. Within these pages you will find hilarious stories from his childhood and learn more about what makes Bruce Bruce one of the most popular comedians in the business today.

Bruce’s comedy can actually be traced back to when he was working as a chef directly out of high school. He would entertain his customers with his humor while cooking up mean BBQ dishes. Bruce also worked as a Frito-Lays salesman and did everything from shelf placement to performing his comedy sets during their corporate meetings. Eventually, Bruce brought his comedy routine to the Comedy Act Theater in Atlanta and was an instant hit. When BET’s Coast to Coast came to town searching for new and talented stand-up comedians, Bruce would pursue the opportunity to appear on the show and would incessantly audition at each club in the area.

Ultimately, he appeared on the show three times. In 1993, Bruce made his first appearance on HBO’s Def Comedy Jam; followed quickly by an impressive appearance on the Showtime at the Apollo hosted by Steve Harvey in 1994. Bruce was asked back to the Apollo two more time in 1995.

His career skyrocketed from there. After receiving the highest ratings ever as the Host of “BET’s 10th Anniversary Comic View” for two seasons, Bruce returned to the BET family as the two-time host “Coming to the Stage.”

Bruce went on to star in his own “Comedy Central Presents” special which he followed with a release of his one-hour comedy special DVD “Bruce Bruce Live”(2003) and more recently on “Losin’ It” (Showtime 2011). On the big screen, Bruce has created crazy characters like the “Lime Pimp” in Hair Show starring Mo ‘Nique, and “Dewayne” the lovable security guard in The Wash starring Snoop Dog and Dr Dre. He also appeared in Larry the Cable Guy: Health Inspector, XXX: State of the Union and as the memorable “Golf Ball Eddie” in Who’s Your Caddy.

Bruce’s bigger than life personality has transcended his personality onto the music video scene as well. He has made guest appearances in videos with Ludacris and the Ying Yang Twins (after being named in their hit song “Salt Shaker”). He appeared in the monstrous 1996 summer hit “Come On Ride the Train (Ride It)” by Quad City DJs and can also be seen in Outkast’s music video “So Fresh, So Clean.” Most recently, Bruce appears with Anthony Anderson in the KEM music video, “You’re On My Mind.”

Bruce’s memorable festival appearances include the prestigious, Just For Laughs Comedy Festival in both Chicago (2009) and Montreal (2000 /2003/2008), Laffapalooza in Atlanta, GA (1999-2002) and the US Comedy Arts Festival in Aspen (2002).

You can currently find Bruce on IFC’s “Maron” this summer and, now on DVD, in “Top Five,” also starring with Anthony Anderson in the music video by KEM, “You’re On My Mind,” his recent DVD release, “Losin’ It: Live from Boston,” and in constant reruns of “Comic View” on BET.

When not performing in comedy clubs across the country, Bruce divides his time between his homes in Atlanta and Los Angeles. He is also extremely dedicated to his incredible car collection, which includes two Harley Davidson trucks and four Buick muscle cars, among others.

Don DC Curry

Don “D.C.” Curry stared as the sadistic gangster in the crime drama, Two Degrees. He’s also the outrageous Uncle Elroy in Next Friday, and the hilarious holiday ‘three-quel’ Friday After Nex

Don DC Curry

Don DC Curry

Don “D.C.” Curry stared as the sadistic gangster in the crime drama, Two Degrees. He’s also the outrageous Uncle Elroy in Next Friday, and the hilarious holiday ‘three-quel’ Friday After Next.

Known by fans across the country for his numerous national television appearances, his yearly theatre tours and for headlining the nation's hottest comedy clubs, Don "DC" Curry is probably most widely recognized for his comedic acting role as the zany "Uncle Elroy" on the hit urban classics, "Next Friday" and "Friday After Next." His credits also include guest appearances on: The Boondocks, Everybody Hates Chris, The Steve Harvey Show, The Chris Rock Show, HBO Def Comedy Jam, Starz 1st Amendment Stand Up, Comics Unleashed, Comics Unleashed Hot Chocolate, host of BET Comic View, his own Comedy Central Special, his own BET Special, a series regular role on ABC's Grace Under Fire, and the Winner of the Bay Area Black Comedy Competition.

In 1995, after prevailing against the top up and coming urban comedians in the country, DC won the coveted title of “Comedian Of The Year” by winning the BAY AREA BLACK COMEDY COMPETITION (of which he is now the perennial host), joining the ranks of famous alumni Jamie Foxx, D.L. Hughley, Chris Tucker, Mike Epps, Nick Cannon and Mark Curry. He went on that same year to be named "Comedian Of The Year" by the BET network (his classic bits from the early years can be seen regularly on The Best of BET’s Comicview.

Next, he taped his first television special. By the next season he was hosting COMIC VIEW. After garnering the attention of industry executives, he earned a series regular role on ABC's Grace Under Fire. DC performed on such popular talk shows as HBO’s critically acclaimed, THE CHRIS ROCK SHOW and THE ROSEANNE SHOW. Demonstrating his versatility, DC hosted Wesley Snipes’/TNT network’s martial arts special, BLADE SALUTES THE MASTERS OF MARTIAL ARTS.

In radio he spouted his comedic wisdom on one of Dallas’ top radio stations for five years and he’s been an on-air spokesman for California Energy Conservation. As a film actor and TV personality, he has both “chops” and notable range. He appeared as Pastor Jones on the NBC sitcom, THE TRACY MORGAN SHOW. He stars as the sadistic gangster in the crime drama, TWO DEGREES. He’s the outrageous Uncle Elroy in NEXT FRIDAY, and the hilarious holiday ‘three-quel’ FRIDAY AFTER NEXT.

He was the grumpy boss as a series regular on the aforementioned ABC’S GRACE UNDER FIRE and was an actor/singer, along with Ronald Isley of the Isley Brothers on THE STEVE HARVEY SHOW. He taped, DON “DC” CURRY-NERVOUS BREAKDOWN LIVE! his own DVD/cable TV special and CD that he also co-produced. His cable special, COMEDY CENTRAL PRESENTS DC CURRY, continues to air on that network. He’s appeared twice at both the “U.S. Comedy Arts Festival,” in Aspen and the “Just For Laughs International Comedy Festival” in Montreal.

During the winter of 2006 D.C. guest starred on Chris Rock’s hit sitcom EVERYBODY HATES CHRIS and starred in the national touring stage play CASINO along with Kelly Price and his good friend the late, great Gerald Levert. Later in 2006 he also starred in the Gospel musical IF YOU WON’T TELL, I WON’T TELL. That same season D.C. performed to a rousing standing ovation on the return of HBO’s Russell Simmons’ DEF COMEDY JAM. D.C.’s installment was touted by executive producer Russell Simmons, as one of the strongest shows in Def Comedy Jam history. Capping off a very busy fall 2006, he made two appearances on Byron Allen’s new syndicated hit COMICS UNLEASHED.

During the winter and spring of 2007, DC was the lead in the hit stage play, YOU GOT ME BENT AND TWISTED, co-starring Jackee, Debbie Morgan and Chrystale. In the spring of 2008, by special request, he graced Washington D.C.’s Lincoln Theatre stage as a special guest on Martin Lawrence’s First Amendment, Stand-Up series on the Starz network. He also made another appearance on Byron Allen’s Comic’s Unleashed. During he summer of 2008 he appeared on BET’s new stand-up comedy strip, One Mic Stand. In the spring of 2009 and summer 2010 he made his first appearances on the hit comedy animation series BOONDOCKS. In February 2011 he appeared on TV One’s Way Black When, their highly popular, annual Black History Month late night variety show.

For over a decade, DC has been expanding his audience and his range on both sides of the camera. He and his manager, writer/director Tony Spires, produced their own feature film, the gritty, crime drama, TWO DEGREES, in which Curry both stars and executive produces. DC’s latest starring role has been touted as his greatest acting work to date-the dramatic comedy TEARS OF A CLOWN, a feature film which chronicles the rise, fall and redemption of an African American stand-up comic, starring Curry, William L. Johnson, Tami Roman and Spires.

J. Anthony Brown

J. Anthony Brown is a staple on the nationally syndicated Tom Joyner Morning Show for over nine years now, he is one of the voices that wake up millions of radio listeners in over 195 markets.

J. Anthony Brown

J. Anthony Brown

J. Anthony Brown is a staple on the nationally syndicated Tom Joyner Morning Show for over nine years now, he is one of the voices that wake up millions of radio listeners in over 195 markets.

As a forerunner to today’s hot Black comedy scene, and one of the foremost kings of that comedy, J. Anthony Brown is finally receiving the accolades he so justly j anthony browndeserves. A staple on the nationally syndicated Tom Joyner Morning Show for over nine years now, he is one of the voices that wake up millions of radio listeners in over 195 markets.

J. Anthony Brown is a titanic comedic force! His sidesplitting antics and sensibilities have set a precedent that many now follow. Whether he is murdering the hits with his off key version of the latest song, or donning a pink pimp suit to evoke a laugh, Brown will get to your funny bone. His penchant for alligator shoes and rainbow colored suits convey his “party time” approach for fun.

BET recognized the power of his comedic drive and therefore had him host two consecutive seasons of their top rated network show, “Comic View”, Revamped as “Club Comic View.” As testimony to the comedian’s draw power, his season had some of the comedy world’s biggest names grace the stage.

But it was Brown’s role as Pop on the WB Network’s Like Family, starring Holly Robinson Pete, which initially garnered the funny man his widest mainstream audience … he was catapulted to the forefront of America’s viewing plate.

The South Carolina native began his career by chance in 1972 after relocating to Atlanta. He was originally pursuing a career as a clothing designer when $316 short of tuition money, he visited a local club and entered a gong show contest. The one time tailor was asked back to the venue, and later transformed it into a city hot spot as word of his natural wit traveled quickly.

Brown later left Atlanta for Hollywood, landing a job as head staff writer for the Arsenio Hall Show. An industry staple since, his impressive list of credits include hosting two consecutive seasons of Comic View, performances on Def Jam, It’s Showtime at the Apollo and Evening at the Improv. Writing credits include Tom Joyner TV Show, Steve Harvey’s Big Time, Me and The Boys, The Parent ‘Hood and the Arsenio Hall Show. Movie credits include Tripple X -State of the Union, Mr. 3000, Drumline & How to Be a Player. Television credits include Tom Joyner TV Show on ABC, Tom Joyner Sky Show on TV-One, Dlife-Diabetes Talk Show on CNBC, EVE, Steve Harvey’s Big Time, Like Family, The Parkers, Livin’ Single, The Parent ‘Hood, Martin, Moesha, The Hugley’s, Sparks, and even Oprah.

An innovative businessman as well as comedian, Brown has his own line of products that carry his name, including his own clothing line, “The J. Anthony Brown Collection,” gourmet and multimedia products. A creative artist and talented visionary, the comedian’s artwork has been featured along side Annie Lee in an art exhibit in Washington, DC in November 2005.

Tommy Davidson

Tommy Davidson’s exceptional range from stand-up comedy and acting to versatile music ability have earned him a reputation as an extraordinary performer. Best known as one of the original stars of t

Tommy Davidson

Tommy Davidson

Tommy Davidson’s exceptional range from stand-up comedy and acting to versatile music ability have earned him a reputation as an extraordinary performer. Best known as one of the original stars of the hit television show In Liv­ing Color, Tommy’s reach is built on the show’s and its stars groundbreaking and innovative talent.

Tommy Davidson’s excep­tional range – from stand-up com­edy and act­ing to ver­sa­tile music accom­plish­ments – have earned him a rep­u­ta­tion as an extra­or­di­nary per­former. Best known as one of the stars of the hit tele­vi­sion show In Liv­ing Color, his vis­i­bil­ity has allowed him to become a house­hold name known for his inno­v­a­tive talent.

David­son started his career as a standup come­dian in Wash­ing­ton DC, earn­ing an ardent fol­low­ing with relent­less work in the lead­ing com­edy clubs. As one of the cutting-edge, young stand-ups, he was spot­ted by major con­cert pro­mot­ers who booked him as the open­ing act for A-list tours includ­ing Patti LaBelle, Kenny G and Luther Van­dross. It wasn’t long before he came to Hol­ly­wood and was head­lin­ing at a num­ber of clubs, includ­ing the Com­edy Act The­atre, where he met Robert Townsend. This led to his first national tele­vi­sion appear­ance with a star­ring role in Part­ners in Crime and was the con­duit to Keenan Ivory Wayans, who proved instru­men­tal in Davidson’s career by offer­ing him an oppor­tu­nity to audition.

Tommy and Jamie Foxx, Jim Car­rey, Damon Wayans and David Alan Grier — the uniquely tal­ented cast of the most adven­tur­ous prime­time vari­ety show on tele­vi­sion, In Liv­ing Color (1990), made TV his­tory. The iconic sketch show was recently hon­ored with the ‘Ground­break­ing Award” by TV Land in a star-studded salute guided by Whoopi Gold­berg and this year cel­e­brates its 25th anniversary.

Davidson’s hilar­i­ous impres­sions of Sammy Davis Jr., Michael Jack­son and other icons have become infa­mous. His vis­i­bil­ity on In Liv­ing Color led to three Show­time spe­cials: On Strength of New York, Illin’ in Philly and Takin’ it to DC. Tommy is the host and star of Showtime’s 2013 Choco­late Sun­daes spe­cial (eOne) which gar­nered rave reviews upon pre­miere and remains one of eOne Film’s best sellers.

He has just been cast in a star­ring role in Frat Pack, an unapolo­getic com­edy shoot­ing in Toronto in April due late 2015 release. The indie fea­ture cen­ters on a shy late 20s British bach­e­lor who is dragged on a wild road trip to a fra­ter­nity party as his mother mar­ries into a larger than life Amer­i­can fam­ily. Think “Road Trip” meets “Brides­maids” meets “Project X” with a bit of “Amer­i­can Pie” thrown in.

His elas­tic­ity as a per­former who deliv­ers on the small screen ranges from his guest star­ring role in sea­son 4 of the hot BET show, Real Hus­bands of Hol­ly­wood, oppo­site Kevin Hart and Nick Can­non and as the star of Will Smith’s ani­mated series, Youngin’s and Disney’s ani­mated series, The Proud Family

Tommy stars oppo­site Michael Jai White in the critically-lauded spoof com­edy, Black Dyna­mite (Sony Pic­tures) as the char­ac­ter ‘Cream Corn.’ The cult hit was adapted as an ani­mated series for the Car­toon Net­work, becom­ing a break­out hit. It con­tin­ues to gar­ner the high­est rat­ings the Turner imprint has ever expe­ri­enced set­ting the prece­dent for all Adult Swim series.

John Witherspoon

You probably remember John Witherspoon as Ice Cube's (Craig's) outrageously funny, dog-catching dad in New Line Cinema's smash urban trilogy Friday, Next Friday & Friday After Next, or as "Pops" o

John Witherspoon

John Witherspoon

You probably remember John Witherspoon as Ice Cube's (Craig's) outrageously funny, dog-catching dad in New Line Cinema's smash urban trilogy Friday, Next Friday & Friday After Next, or as "Pops" on the long-running syndicated sitcom The Wayans Brothers or as Spoon on NBC's The Tracy Morgan Show. One thing's for sure... once you've seen Witherspoon you completely understand why he has earned the reputation as one of America's funniest dads.

Witherspoon has brought to life some of the most hilarious, unforgettable characters ever including, David Allen Grier's fashionably challenged, mushroom-wearing father in the romantic comedy Boomerang, and the quirky, diner-owning father "Pops" on The WB's The Wayans Brothers. His scene-stealing roles in Boomerang, Little Nicky, House Party, Vampire in Brooklyn, and I'm Gonna Git You Sucka, made him one of the most memorable funny men in America.

You've seen him in everything from popular music videos alongside Jay Z and Sugar Ray---to sitcoms opposite The Wayans Brothers and Saturday Night Live's, Tracy Morgan---to blockbuster movies alongside Eddie Murphy, Adam Sandler, Chris Tucker and Ice Cube, amongst others. Not only does Witherspoon's work span over four decades to include blockbuster movies, hit-television shows, commercials, and top-rated music videos, but he's coined his own catch phrases... as in... "Bang!Bang!Bang!Bang!" and "You Gotta Co-ordinate!"

You have to wonder how a comedian whose work can be traced back as far as WKRP in Cincinnati and Barnaby Jones, can still be relevant today. His roles in the Friday series, (Friday, Next Friday, Friday After Next), Soul Plane, Ladies Man, Boomerang, Vampire in Brooklyn, Little Nicky, House Party, etc. are arguably some of the most hilarious bits of comedy to date. The Orange County Register describes the comedian/actor as being in a class of his own. "Witherspoon is one of those performers who doesn't need a funny line to be funny. Just standing there in a truculent posture with a suspicious look, he is funny and enlivens every scene he's in." The Detroit-bred comic has proven that he is a Hollywood mainstay and continues to land coveted spots in some of America's favorite movies and television shows.

Witherspoon will have America laughing once again this fall in his wickedly funny role in the highly anticipated animated series, The Boondock's (The Cartoon Network). He stars as the eccentric "Grandad" in the series based on the award winning and politically charged comic strip. Additionally, Witherspoon has lent his voice to other top-rated animated shows including, The Proud Family and Kim Possible, amongst others. Witherspoon continues to tour around the country with his wildly popular stand-up show and recently launched The John Witherspoon Collection---a complete line of humorous greeting cards called Spoon Cards.

Cocoa Brown

When actress and comedian Cocoa Brown takes the stage, the world stands still.

Brown is undeniably one of the most talented comics and performers of this generation. The Newport N

Cocoa Brown

Cocoa Brown

When actress and comedian Cocoa Brown takes the stage, the world stands still.

Brown is undeniably one of the most talented comics and performers of this generation. The Newport News, Virginia native, born Farah Brown, assails her craft with such passion and soul-searching veracity, when she claims a stage the ensuing act is nothing short of a force of a nature. Cocoa Brown audaciously draws from painful reminiscences and hard-knocked lessons, bravely weaving humorous tales that uplift, upend, and upgrade everything you thought you knew about comedy. What drives the comic who female fans nationwide have nicknamed the “The Truth”? The sheer will of a woman who survived the worst life had to offer and is still standing.

The fiery performer, whose credits include Tyler Perry’s critically acclaimed comedy series “For Better or Worse” on Oprah Winfrey’s OWN network and a national commercial spot for Progressive Insurance Company, has assembled an extensive body of work. A career that began as an advertising associate for Ringling Bros and Barnum & Bailey Circus and a writer for various sketch comedy shows proved confining for the dynamic performer. She honed her writing and creativity to pursue her dream of being a stand-up comic. A decade later Brown had nearly mastered the art of comedy. She harnessed its essence and purpose, performing on top rated comedy shows including BET’s “Comic View” and “One Mic Stand”, and “Showtime at the Apollo”.

Today, she exemplifies mind-blowing humor, daring drama and contemporary reality wrapped in a boundlessly energetic package. Whether she is performing in honor of the incomparable Richard Pryor or acting in films such as “Lakeview Terrace” with Samuel L. Jackson, Brown exudes skill and discipline. Those characteristics, along with her chilling story of struggle and redemption, inspired Tyler Perry to create “Single Moms Club”, a feature film that casts the accomplished actress in the leading role. The movie is scheduled to hit theaters in 2014. The comedy veteran and rising star, fueled by Perry’s powerful vote of confidence, is ramping up her ambitions in a relentless mission to become the performer many people doubted but even more admire. With a nomination for a Screen Actors Guild award under her belt, Brown has her sights set on an Oscar, an Emmy and a Pulitzer Prize. She is writing a revealing autobiography and producing her highly anticipated one-woman show, “Confessions of a Suicidal Diva”.

The lovable, down-to-earth celebrity and proud new mom keeps t-v audiences tuning in every week for an intoxicating dose of Cocoa infused humor. She also captivates audiences worldwide at renowned comedy venues. Her creative writing and meticulously produced sets coupled with the ever-changing hairstyles and gutsy sense of fashion
ignites rousing, protracted standing ovations. Yet, amid such explosive success, Brown admits she desires very little. “I want audiences to connect with my story and in the course of that journey find their own. That is my inspiration, my peace. I am in a good place now. I am finally learning how to love myself and I am comfortable in my own skin. Most importantly, I am not afraid to use my voice.

That is certainly a good thing. That beautiful, husky, unapologetic and very funny voice will no doubt, change the world.

Finesse Mitchell

In March of 2015 SNL/Saturday Night Live alum Finesse Mitchell played a role in HBO’s new comedy Brothers In Atlanta which has now been picked up to series. The show is executive produced by Lorne M

Finesse Mitchell

Finesse Mitchell

In March of 2015 SNL/Saturday Night Live alum Finesse Mitchell played a role in HBO’s new comedy Brothers In Atlanta which has now been picked up to series. The show is executive produced by Lorne Michaels (SNL/ Saturday Night Live) with Tim Story (Ride Along, Think Like A Man) directing.

In February of 2015 Mitchell hit the road with Cameron Crowe (Aloha, Almost Famous, Jerry Maguire) and producer JJ Abrams (Star Wars, Star Trek, Lost) for the Showtime Network’s new comedy pilot Roadies.
Mitchell a supporter of the men and women in the armed forces recently appeared in Ron White’s Comedy Salute to the Troops. The live event from Las Vegas was recorded for airing June 12, 2015 on Country Music Television (CMT), and all proceeds benefit the Armed Forces Foundation.
Also in the stand-up comedy space, Finesse was a member of the 2014 Shaq All-Star Comedy Jam tour. He further shined on the SHAQ All-Star one-hour comedy special taped in Atlanta, GA which aired on SHOWTIME.
In addition to being an SNL/Saturday Night Live alum, Finesse’s previous credits include Disney’s hit show A.N.T. Farm and co-hosted BET/ Centric’s According To Him & Her with RHOA star Claudia Jordan. Mitchell has also had numerous appearances on NBC’s Today show, The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, Late Night with Jimmy Fallon, The Arsenio Hall Show, B.E.T Comic View, Tyra, and many more. His feature film work includes “Who’s your Caddy”, “The Comebacks”, “Mad Money” and the upcoming “Barely Lethal” which also stars Samuel L. Jackson and Jessica Alba which is set for a May 29th, 2015 release.
Born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia, Mitchell graduated from the University of Miami and is a distinguished member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity. He is also a former student-athlete who was a walk-on for the National Champion Hurricanes football team, and played with such UM alumni as Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and Super bowl champion, Warren Sapp. His book, “Your Girlfriends Only Know So Much: A Brother’s Take on Dating and Mating for Sistas” (2007) is an advice book for women. It was born out of his hip, hilarious and widely popular monthly advice column for ESSENCE Magazine.

Boardwalk Hall

How to get to Boardwalk Hall

Route from highway

From the north major interstate highways connect with the Garden State Parkway south. Take exit 38 to the Atlantic City Expressway. From the south, I-95 to Delaware Memorial Bridge to Route 40 to Route 322, or via Lewes, Delaware, take the Cape May-Lewes Ferry to Garden State Parkway North, to Atlantic City Expressway. The Atlantic City Expressway takes you right into Atlantic City. Follow signs for Pacific Avenue on the foot of the Expressway. Make a right onto Pacific Avenue; Boardwalk Hall is located on the left next to Trump Plaza Hotel and Casino.

Parking

BOARDWALK HALL GARAGE at MISSISSIPPI AVE: The garage is located at the end of Mississippi Avenue and the Boardwalk. Just take the ramp down into the tunnel underneath Boardwalk Hall and make the first right. Parking rates vary depending on the event and the garage is CASH ONLY. ---OR--- ATLANTIC CITY CONVENTION CENTER GARAGE at MICHIGAN AVE: At the end of the Atlantic City Expressway turn left onto Arctic Avenue, then turn left onto Michigan Avenue and proceed straight ahead into the garage.

FAQ

BY RAIL: The NJ Transit Rail Terminal is directly adjacent to the Atlantic City Convention Center and connects Atlantic City to Philadelphia at 30th Street Station and Amtrak’s Northeast corridor lines. For more information, call 973-275-5555, or visit their website at www.njtransit.com.

BY AIR: Atlantic City International Airport (ACY) is an easy 20-minute drive from Atlantic City. Scheduled carrier servicing ACY is Spirit Airlines (1-800-772-7117) and United Airlines (1-800-241-6522). Philadelphia International Airport is about 60 minutes away. For more information about Atlantic City International Airport, visit www.acairport.com

The 2015 Atlantic City Comedy Festival consists of two shows on Columbus Day Weekend. The first show is Saturday, October 10, 2015 at 8 pm and the following show will take place on Sunday October, 11, 2015 at 8 pm. Both shows will take place at Boardwalk Hall. Tickets for each show are sold separately.

Tickets for each of the shows are sold separately. Ticket prices range from $52 - $77. Tickets are available at the Boardwalk Hall Box Office, all Ticketmaster locations, Ticketmaster.com, or charge by phone 1-800-745-3000.

Ticket Price Levels

$48.50, $61, $79

Tickets available at the box office, All Ticketmaster outlets, Wanamaker's, Philadelphia Hair Co., OP Productions in Delaware, Ticketmaster.com, or charge by phone 1-800-745-3000. (Prices above include the facility fee but do not include any handling fees and/or online Ticketmaster fees.)